Brief Overview of σημειόω (Strong’s G4593: sēmeioō)

Strong’s G4593: A verb meaning “to mark, note, or take special notice of,” derived from σημεῖον (sign). In its New Testament context, it specifically relates to identifying and taking note of those who are disobedient to apostolic teaching, for the purpose of restoration through loving church discipline.

U- Unveiling the Word

σημειόω represents the action of marking or taking special notice, particularly in the context of church discipline. Its sole appearance in 2 Thessalonians 3:14 instructs believers to identify those who refuse apostolic teaching, not for permanent exclusion but for restoration. Early church writers emphasized this word’s connection to redemptive discipline rather than punitive action. Today, it reminds us that church discipline should always aim at restoration and maintaining the purity of Christ’s body.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: σημειόω, sēmeioō, say-may-OH-oh
• Detailed pronunciation: stress on third syllable: ‘say’ as in say, ‘may’ as in may, ‘OH’ as in oh, ‘oh’ as in oh
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• From σημεῖον (sēmeion) – sign, mark
• -όω (-oō): Verb-forming suffix indicating to make or cause

D – Defining Meanings

• To mark or note
• To identify for special attention
• To take notice of

For compound words:
Not applicable as σημειόω is derived from σημεῖον with a verbal suffix

Translation Options:

• “To mark” – Emphasizes identification aspect
• “To take note of” – Stresses observation
• “To identify” – Highlights purposeful recognition

E – Exploring Similar Words

• παρατηρέω (paratēreō, pa-ra-tay-REH-oh) – to watch closely See G3906
• σκοπέω (skopeō, sko-PEH-oh) – to look at, consider See G4648
• νουθετέω (noutheteō, nou-the-TEH-oh) – to admonish See G3560

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Verb Features:

• Tense: Present (in NT usage)
• Voice: Middle/Passive
• Mood: Imperative
• Person: 2nd
• Number: Plural
• Aspect: Continuous/Progressive

Example conjugations:
Present Middle Imperative: σημειοῦσθε (mark/note for yourselves)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its use in church discipline contexts. Thayer’s notes its connection to identification for correction. LSJ documents its broader usage for marking or noting. Vine’s highlights its disciplinary purpose. Strong’s connects it to purposeful observation. Moulton-Milligan provides evidence of its use in business documents for marking items.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
“And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed.” 2 Thessalonians 3:14

Additional References:
This is the only occurrence in the New Testament.

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

σημειόω teaches us about redemptive church discipline, showing how identification of disobedience should lead to restoration. It reminds us that Christ’s church must maintain both purity and love, marking those who stray not for rejection but for reconciliation. This word points to Jesus’ own ministry of seeking and saving the lost.

D – Did You Know?

1. The word was commonly used in ancient document margination for important passages.
2. Early church practice developed specific procedures based on this term.
3. Medieval manuscripts often used special marks (σημεία) based on this word’s usage.

Strong’s G4593: A verb meaning “to mark, note, or take special notice of,” derived from σημεῖον (sign). In its New Testament context, it specifically relates to identifying and taking note of those who are disobedient to apostolic teaching, for the purpose of restoration through loving church discipline.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: church discipline, marking, identification, restoration, correction, discipline, Thessalonians, apostolic teaching, church order, spiritual oversight, pastoral care, church community​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​